The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (or EPA) has recognized Miner County Development Corporation and the Rural Learning Center in Howard with the 2011 National Smart Growth Award.
The 2011 National Smart Growth Award recognizes five communities for their use of innovative policies and strategies to strengthen their economies, provide housing and transportation choices, develop in ways that bring benefits to a wide range of residents, and protect the environment.
The Maroney Commons in Howard, built with green building techniques, is a mixed-use complex with a hotel, conference center, restaurant, and offices that will help rural communities learn about green jobs and technology, in addition to bringing new jobs to Miner County. The facility is expected to create 13 full-time jobs and bring the local economy more than six-million dollars a year. The E-P-A said the facility has raised the bar – both through its innovative design and construction, and its educational opportunities for rural residents. The E-P-A said its award winners show how communities of any size can become dynamic places to live, work, and play.
Senator Tim Johnson said receiving the Smart Growth Award from the E-P-A is a major accomplishment for the Rural Learning Center.
Members of the Rural Learning Center were recognized for the award in a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Thursday.